Showerthought: I think everyone is wrong about the Colorado Trail being a 'must-do' for beginners.

I spent $250 on a shuttle from Denver to the southern terminus last year, and it felt like a huge waste because the first 50 miles were just a dusty, crowded slog. Has anyone else found a better intro route that's actually worth the hype and expense?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_holly13d ago

My cousin did the Collegiate Loop section last fall and said it was a much better start. He caught a ride from Buena Vista for like forty bucks and hit real scenery by day two. That first stretch out of Denver is just a parking lot with dirt. I read a blog that said skipping to segment three saves your sanity and your wallet.

the_cameron14d ago

What kind of shuttle service costs that much just to drop you in a dust bowl? Sounds like you paid a premium to be part of a long, hot line. For that price, I'd want at least a marching band and a cold drink at the trailhead. Maybe try a different trail that doesn't require a second mortgage just to get to the starting line.

murphy.linda14d ago

Wait, a second mortgage? How much are we even talking about here? I've seen some pricey shuttles but that's just crazy. It better come with a personal guide and a helicopter ride back. Honestly at that point I'd just turn around and go home.